Anti-abortion activists rally in annual 'March for Life' in Washington

Thousands of anti-abortion activists from around the U.S. gathered in Washington Friday for the annual “March for Life” — fired up by the support of Donald Trump, who was slated to address the crowds via video link.

The 45th edition of the rally, which describes itself as “the world’s largest pro-life event,” took place on the National Mall — with other scheduled speakers including House Speaker Paul Ryan.

On Wednesday, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders announced Trump would be “the first sitting president” to speak to marchers from the Rose Garden of the White House via satellite.

Former Republican presidents, such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, addressed marchers by telephone.

The march marks an anniversary that infuriates its participants — the Supreme Court’s historic ruling on Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion across the United States in 1973. (AFP)